March 23: Insight Post by Kim Feld
Monday Insight Post
by Kim Feld
Matthew chapter 21 describes Jesus' entry into Jerusalem, where the crowds honor Him as King and Messiah by laying down coats and praising Him. This act recognized Jesus' kingship and fulfilled prophecy, but their understanding of His mission was limited. Soon, their celebration would turn into calls for His execution, revealing that outward praise does not always indicate a true understanding of Jesus' purpose. This contrast forms the backdrop for the words they shouted as Jesus entered the city.
The crowd's words of praise for Jesus largely come from Psalm 118—a part of the Jewish Hallel, the prayers of praise recited during Passover (Psalms 113-118). With this in mind, the following section of the psalm includes both praise and prophecy, providing context for what the crowd declared:
22The stone that the builders rejected
has now become the cornerstone.
23This is the Lord’s doing,
and it is wonderful to see.
24This is the day the Lord has made.
We will rejoice and be glad in it.
25Please, Lord, please save us.
Please, Lord, please give us success.
26Bless the one who comes in the name of the Lord.
We bless you from the house of the Lord.
27The Lord is God, shining upon us.
Take the sacrifice and bind it with cords on the altar.
28You are my God, and I will praise you!
You are my God, and I will exalt you!
29Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good!
His faithful love endures forever.
Psalm 118:22-29 (NLT)
Although it is used in praise, the original meaning of the word “hosanna” was “save us!” This word, shouted by the crowds, highlighted their hope for a Messiah—one who would rescue and redeem them. Yet, even as they celebrated Jesus, they didn’t understand how this salvation would come about. The events of Holy Week would soon reveal that their deliverance would require Jesus’ brutal death on the cross and His victory over death through resurrection. He saved us by dying for us. We will never be able to celebrate that gift enough.
Kim Feld
Executive Director of Education and Outreach
New Hope Church
Lorton, Virginia
newhope.org